Day 62/100: Morgan Answers

Some time ago, I sent some questions to a gal named Morgan. She was kind enough to answer. Someday, I hope to spend some time with her and her trusty steed, Mikey. Until then, these lovely answers will have to do. A huge thank you to Morgan for her time on these - enjoy! 

1. When did you begin riding? What drew you to the horse? I began taking riding lessons in 2nd grade after my 2nd grade teacher suggested I take them. I constantly talked about horses and made up stories about them in class and so she helped find an outlet for me that included real horses. I got involved with the Arabian breed in 5th grade after I started taking lessons with Cedar Ridge Arabians. I took a few months off, not knowing what I truly wanted to do with riding (part of me still wanted to be a jumper), but I went back and I have been involved with the Arabian breed ever since. Originally, my cousin's passion for horses drew me to them. She was older, really cool and loved horses, so I just had to like them as well.

2. What do you think has kept you interested?  I absolutely believe it has been my mom and the people in my barn families that have helped nurture my love and keep me interested in horses. I love sharing things with others and the fact there was always a huge support group, at the barn or at a show, willing to support you is really comforting. Also, it's easy to stay interested in something that you're passionate about.

3. How do you feel when you’re grooming a horse? Riding? Competing? I really love grooming horses, even if it may be considered dirty work. I like that you get to bond with your horse on the ground and learn their quirks and idiosyncrasies. I feel you also got a lot closer to your horse and any horse you are working with. There is nothing more fun than scratching the right spot and seeing your horse turn his head up in enjoyment. When I ride, I feel like all my stress, anxiety and any excess baggage I may be dealing with it gone. Because in that moment I'm focusing on my horse and either what we're working on today or just goofing around, all while enjoying each other's company. I've been competing over the past eight years and I still get nervous, but these days it's more of an excited nervous. There is nothing more thrilling than hitting the reverse and trot and feeling your horse sink his back end and literally throw you out of the saddle.

4. Do you like riding at home or competing best? What are the main differences in your temperament, goals, and general contentment in these two areas? I love the accomplishments you achieve when riding at home, but I truly love competing. For me, the main difference between riding at home and competing would be that while at home, I'm still working on fine tuning and putting the pieces of the puzzle together in terms of my connection my horse. While at a show, we have those connections in place and now it's time to show what we can do, all while adjusting and anticipating new puzzle pieces I can work on. My demeanor and temperament is consistent across the two environments, however I do have more nervous energy the day I compete, but it dissipates as soon as I get on my trusty steed.

Day 56/100: The Winning Buzz

Coming from nearly 20 years of show ring experience, it can be helpful to contemplate where “success” exists for an aspiring horseman/lady. That’s all this is — a reminder of balance, remembering what the real victory looks like, appreciating the journey.

Back at my childhood home in South Dakota, I have a room full of red rose garlands, satin ribbons in every color, wooden plaques with brass plates, and trophies that range from tiny, shiny blue plastic to colossal statues bearing the title of National Championship. It’s a beautiful little collection of jubilant memories. Moments that meant a great deal to me — all undoubtedly wonderful and special. These were moments that inspired my heart to beat excitedly, my hands to shake with exhilaration, my mind to race in the thrill.

And it felt like magic; I don’t deny that.

However, with some perspective in the mix, I do think that the pinnacle of these moments is ephemeral in nature — as the cheers of the crowd dissipate, so does the intense feeling of fulfillment within. Of course, that doesn’t make the win any less special. It is an incredible and tangible testament to the talent and intelligence of your horse, the finesse and skill set of your trainer, and the composure and ability you exhibited in the arena. It is a lovely honor to celebrate, but I think that placing these winning moments as the end goal, the triumph, and the ultimate objective will only leave you temporarily delighted. And shortly thereafter, you will realize that trophy you’ve been pining after didn’t come with a lifetime supply of happiness you assumed it would. 

When you come to appreciate the transitory reality of the winning buzz, it is easy to locate the path that leads to real happiness, fulfillment, and accomplishment. It comes down to one simple thing — something that’s not a thing at all. It’s the being beneath you. The furry partner who has been by your side the whole time. The one who doesn’t care about getting greased up and wearing the latest wool outfits in 80 degree heat. The one who aims to please you and gets overly excited about loud noises and hopes that your confidence and wherewithal will simply get them through the 20-minute class. 

The horse! Ahh, that’s right.

The long-term bliss comes in the moments spent brushing your horse, lovingly poking the soft spot on the side of their muzzle, going extra fast in the arena when no one is around. These are the moments that make your heart sing, your tummy buzz with excitement, your soul swirl with love and contentment. Because these are the moments of genuine, centered presence.

Ribbons are dandy and goals are helpful, but don’t forget to enjoy everything that leads up to the show ring. That’s the secret. Once you realize that the point of all of this silliness does not exist in the color of the ribbon you bring home, you win. That’s it. Call the neighbors, ‘cuz it’s potluck time. (That’s a saying, right?)

Day 54/100: Spirit Horse Center

There's a neato horse farm not far from my parent's cabin called Spirit Horse Center. This unique equestrian facility is "a gathering place for those with a passion for horses and a desire to learn, and it has become a sanctuary where horse and human make a connection that will last a lifetime." Located in Brainerd, Minnesota, their methods are centered on the foundation of horsemanship and a partnership with the horse. Yessss!

Now wouldn't ya like to learn more? Same. I'll let you know what happens, amigo.

Day 47/100: A Lovely Find

Today, I found something I wrote after an equine therapy session with Cathy Buelow of Freedom Horse Coaching last fall. It was a remarkably interesting afternoon and though I won't share all the details of it, I will share this piece of writing - a reflection of the afternoon - because I find it wonderfully helpful. 

It opens with 5 words I felt summed up the session and my goals moving forward. 
 

“Strength + Clarity + Peace + Direction + Decisiveness.”

I love these words. What do they mean to you? 

Day 42/100: All Flowers in Time

I used to write a horse blog. Mostly, it's filled with sweet stories, mediocre photos, and the precious ideas of a horse-enamored kid. 

But I found a few I quite like. And here's a bit of one of them... "Horse riding is a sport that cannot be fazed by modern convenience. A horse and rider need the old-fashioned factor of time. It's inescapable. But time is also what keeps horse riding pure and honest - if it was easy and quick, winning would be an everyday occurrence, and what fun would that be? The fun of horses is in the journey, and this road to the top isn't short or consistent, but you'll be a better rider because of it. Horses can be tough animals to get on the same page with, and your relationship with them shouldn't be rushed. You and your horse will evolve together, but getting to know your horse, both in and out the show ring, takes time. The time you spend with your horse will turn into trust, love, and will help you grow as both a person and rider. And the end product will make everything worth it!

Just keep in mind a few key words. Patience. Persistence. Purpose. Everything is not going to come together in a few months or even a year. But as long as you stay patient with yourself and your horse, practice with persistence, and ride with purpose, keeping your goal in mind, you can stay on the right track. One of my favorite song's lyrics read "all flowers in time bend toward the sun," and I believe this couldn't be more fitting. Don't ever give up hope on your horse because time will allow you and your horse to bloom and grow towards the light of trust and oneness."

Day 38/100: The Truth is Here

If you're trying to avoid confrontation, shield yourself from being vulnerable, or escape genuine self-care, hanging out with a horse may be for you.

In a horse, you'll find truth. I swear. 

I grew up in a world of horses that was less about connecting to the natural world, and therefore, one's true self, through the horse. And that's okay. Because that can't necessarily be the goal when winning trophies and ribbons is the ultimate one. However, I think it could deeply enhance our connection to the horse and impact the horse + human relationship. And I want to include questions and contemplation and meditation and honest consideration into my one-on-one sessions with equestrians. Perhaps they'll begin with a series like these ones:

1. When did you begin riding?

2. What drew you to the horse?

3. What do you think has kept you interested?

4. How do you feel when you’re grooming a horse? Riding? Competing?

5. Who is the horse in your life that you have the most special bond with?

6. How do you interact with him/her?

7. Why is he/she the best?

8. How do you feel when you’re with him/her?

9. What are your strongest personal qualities as a horseman?

10. What do you think you need to work on as a horseman?

11. Do these strengths/weaknesses transfer into your real life in any way?

12. What are the qualities you see in the horse that you would like to embody yourself?

13. What do you think the horse can teach a human about living a beautiful, alive, free, open life?

I asked these very questions to a couple dear friends. I'll share their answers soon.